Knill

The surname Knill is of topographical origin, derived from the Old English word 'cnylle' or 'cnoll', meaning 'knoll' or 'hillock'. It would have been given to someone who lived on or near a small hill. The name is found predominantly in the West Country of England, particularly in Herefordshire, where a place called Knill exists. Over time, this topographical surname evolved into a given name, though it remains much rarer as a first name than as a surname.

Its use as a first name is quite uncommon and often reflects a family surname being passed down as a given name, a practice common in English naming traditions. The name carries a sense of connection to the land and a specific geographical feature, reflecting the early origins of many English surnames.